Marathoning and Education

 

I ran my longest training run for the Soldier Marathon yesterday and was surprised to find that I would run into Morgan County before I turned around. I found myself thinking about how preparing for a marathon is a lot like education.

 

When preparing for a marathon, one must spend time on his or her feet. You must run slow. You must run fast. You must be certain to incorporate a weekly long run. You must rest.You must work on hydration and nutrition, so you don't collapse before the run is over. You must be prepared to accept physical and mental challenges.

 

When preparing for life's challanges, one must be involved in educational activities. You must do your homework. You must read extensively. You must study. You must think to gain deeper understanding. You must practice daily to gain new knowledge and skills. You must be prepared to accept physical and mental challenges.

 

If you fail, you can still be successful. Just take the time to rethink your strategies and move forward. Sometimes you will progress rapidly. At other times you will move along slowly, but forward progress will bring you toward your goal.

 

I feel good about my preparations for the Soldier Marathon as I begin the taper phase of my training. I felt really strong throughout yesterday's long run. When I arrived home, I had a clear head. I don't think I hit the wall too hard, thanks to my preparations. I'm looking forward to a great Soldier Marathon!!

Soldier Marathon, Here I come!

The Soldier Marathon is a great race. It starts and ends at the Infantry Museum in Fort Benning, Georgia. Runners run down the Columbus River Walk and pass through scenic Columbus. I also like the fact that runners cross the river and run on the Phenix City, Alabama River Walk.

I ran this race two years ago on my father's birthday. It was the inagural race. I ran it in his memory.

Here's some basic info about Dad that can be found on the web:

James Garner Reser was born on 11/13/1932 and died on 12/30/2004. James Reser is buried in the cemetery: Parkhill Cemetery, which is located in Columbus, GA.

He was a brave soldier, serving in both Viet Nam and Korea. He earned commendations for bravery and always offered me great advice.

As I run this race next November, I will think of him and remember how he encouraged me to keep doing my best.

I'm in week 4 of my training and had a pretty good 8 miler today. Next week my long run will increase to 13 miles.

Looking forward to a great Soldier Marathon on November 10, 2012!!